The thyroid gland plays a vital role in maintaining the body's balance by producing hormones like triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Thyroid hormones control essential functions such as metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, digestion, and mood. When these hormone levels are too high, often due to hyperthyroidism, it can lead to serious health problems.
Unexplained weight loss is one of the most noticeable symptoms of hyperthyroidism. This rapid weight loss occurs despite no significant changes in diet or exercise. The increased thyroid hormone levels accelerate metabolism, causing the body to burn calories at a faster rate.
Anxiety, restlessness, and mood swings are also common symptoms. Thyroid hormones influence brain function, and an excess can lead to emotional instability, irritability, and persistent anxiety. Individuals with hyperthyroidism often experience feelings of restlessness or emotional overwhelm, finding it difficult to maintain a calm state.
Heat intolerance and excessive sweating can also indicate thyroid issues. Frequently feeling overheated, even in air-conditioned environments, or sweating more than usual may be due to an overactive thyroid. It can also cause frequent night sweats or excessive perspiration during light activity.
A rapid or irregular heartbeat is a direct effect of hyperthyroidism on the heart. Individuals may experience a racing heart, skipped beats, or palpitations even while resting or sleeping. These heart flutters result from excess thyroid hormones overstimulating the heart. If left uncontrolled, hyperthyroidism can lead to high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and even heart failure.
Hand tremors and difficulty concentrating are common neurological signs of hyperthyroidism. Those affected may also have difficulty focusing, remembering information, or maintaining alertness. These symptoms stem from the nervous system's overstimulation by elevated hormone levels. This can impact daily tasks, especially in work or academic settings.
Swelling or enlargement in the neck area may be due to an enlarged thyroid gland, a condition known as a goiter. Individuals may also experience tightness in the throat or difficulty swallowing.
Changes in the eyes, such as eye bulging (exophthalmos), can occur in hyperthyroidism. This happens due to inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the eyes, pushing the eyes forward. Symptoms may include dry eyes, irritation, a gritty sensation, or double vision.
Fatigue, muscle weakness, and shortness of breath can also occur. This is due to the strain placed on various body systems by hyperthyroidism. Muscle tissue may break down more rapidly, leading to fatigue, loss of strength, and even shortness of breath when performing simple tasks like climbing stairs or carrying objects.
Thinning hair and changes in skin texture are also potential signs. Excess thyroid hormones disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss and thinning. Skin may also become moist and excessively sweaty. These changes result from the increased metabolism and accelerated cell turnover in the skin and hair follicles.
Bao Bao (Times of India)
